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Tag Archives: 2014

This post is all about the brand new nail tool from Julep, The PliéWand,available June 25th!

Basically, The Plie Wand is an extra long nail polish applicator that pivots to make doing your own nails easier, especially when painting with your non-dominant hand. Julep likens using this product to using a full sized pen after previously having to use a pen the size of a pen cap; much easier and much more natural feeling.

If you want to see a step by step on how to use The Plie Wand, watch the video below.

I think this is an extremely innovative product, and can’t wait until mine arrives in the mail! I would recommend getting the Nail Polishing System option because it is only $10 more and includes the wand, the striping tool, and the dotting tool.

If you don’t already have at least one Julep nail polish for some crazy reason, you’ll need to pick some up (since the Plie Wand is only compatible with Julep nail polishes), which you can get here : http://www.julep.com/shop/nail-polish.html

This post is all about IT Cosmetics and how they are rapidly becoming my Holy Grail BRAND! Yes, I said brand, that means the whole brand is holy grail status…so far! And on top of being amazing quality, they are paraben and cruelty free!

I have only purchased three products from IT Cosmetics thus far, and all three products became Holy Grail after the first use. So much so, that since the purchase of these items, I have not used another product in the same categories. Also, I find that these products to be universally amazing for people of different skin types. Here are the products :

Your Skin But Better CC+

This CC cream is literally your skin but better. It is full coverage (like a full coverage foundation) with the most natural finish I have ever seen; and because its a CC cream it offers extras like an anti-aging hydrating serum, and SPF 50+ uva/ubv protection. It feels like there is absolutely nothing on the skin, yet lasts longer than any foundation/primer/setting spray combo I have ever used. Though it is hydrating, it does not make oily skin oilier (or look oilier). It comes in a 1.08 fl oz tube with a pump, which is very convenient, quick, and sanitary. I use the shade Light which is similar to MAC NC20, but is completely neutral, not too pink and not too yellow. Just Perfect. *The ONLYsemi-annoying thing about this product is that it only comes in 4 shades. Though the shades are all quite versatile, and kind of morph into your perfect color.*

In short, this product is a heavy-duty under eye concealer with extras like collagen and vitamins C and K. It has a thick paste-like consistency (similar to Benefit’s Erase Paste), but easily thins out (or builds up) into a dreamy, blend able, dark circle eraser! It is by far one of the most full-coverage concealers I have ever used, and is quite possibly the best one out there. You only need the tiniest amount as well, whatever amount you think is small enough, cut that in half, seriously. It’s always better to have too little than too much. It also works as a great natural looking skin highlighter/illuminator.

This is by far the most uniquely wonderful product I’ve come across. When I first saw it at Ulta, I was immediately intrigued because it had a small sign that declared that this lipstick was their bestseller worldwide (or something like that), but at first glance it just looked like a clear balm that slightly tinted pink. And when I swatched it on my hand, it just came up clear; so I quickly discounted its claims. I only made it to the next aisle when I looked down and noticed the most beautiful, glowy flush of pink I have ever seen. Apparently as the lipstick warms to your skin, it morphs into a perfect color customized just for you. So naturally I purchased it and as I learned more about it, the more amazed I became. Not only does it morph into your perfect flush, it also has anti-aging and lip conditioning properties such as plum oil, cherry oil, shea butter, aloe and jojoba. It also has anti-oxidants like Vitamins A, C, E, Acai, Green Tea and White Tea that protect your lips from free-radicals. The best part is that even with all of those wonderful oils and hydrators, this lipgloss/stain/lipstick lasts and lasts!

This post will be reviewing the Aphrodite’s Shell Extra Dimension Bronzer from the new MAC Alluring Aquatic Collection for Summer 2014.

Unfortunately, I was only able to purchase this one product from my local MAC store because the other products I was interested in purchasing were already sold out at the time in store and online.

This collection features natural yet metallicized shades in unique metallic turquoise/aqua packaging with 3D water droplets.

Aphrodite’s Shell is described by MAC as a “golden bronze with a touch of fine shimmer”, while I would personally describe it as a light beige tan with rose gold.

I am in love with this bronzer because it give the most natural golden glow to my fair skin, while the rosey undertones give my cheeks a sun kissed flush. With that said, I would only recommend this shade to someone of fair to light skin tone for use as a brozner/blush. People with medium/deep skin tones might prefer this product used as a skin finish or even a golden highlight.

You can purchase products from this collection, including the bronzer ($33), for a limited time at MAC counters.

This post is all about the new MAC Maleficent Collection. I only purchased the eyeshadow quad from this collection because I’m not a huge red lip person, but I am still really excited about this collection because (1) its Disney, and (2) Maleficent is my favorite villain ever!

Although the packaging is on the plainer-side compared to most limited edition collections, I really like the ominous wings graphic and Maleficent logo across the packaging in this collection. It gives it a special feeling without being in-your-face Disney; although I would love that also!

The eyeshadow quad contains the colors Goldmine, Ground Brown, Concrete, and Carbon. Though these are currently shades in MAC’s permanent collection, I did not own any of these colors apart from Carbon, so I was excited to add these to my collection in fun packaging.

Goldmine is a frosted intense yellow gold.

Ground Brown is a matte deep rich warm brown.

Concrete is a matte taupe deep rich brown.

Carbon is a matte deep black.

Overall, I really like this quad and would recommend it to someone like myself who already has basic MAC colors, and is looking to add some new staples into their collection. You can purchase items from this collection, including the eyeshadow quad ($44), for a limited time at MAC counters or maccosmetics.com

Its been SO long since I’ve posted, I know! But don’t worry because I’m back! This post will be about my Most Asked Beauty Questions from friends, family, readers, followers, etc. The answers are just my opinions based on personal experience and preference so if you disagree with anything, thats totally fine. I literally get asked these exact questions on almost a daily basis, so here we go :

1. Whats the “best” foundation?

Its really hard to answer this question for people because there are very few universally exceptional foundation that work for everyone because everyone has different preferences/needs as far as finish, coverage, price point, etc. However, my personal holy grail foundation that a recommend to just about everyone is the IT Cosmetics CC Cream. It’s super versatile, and while it is not technically a foundation, it is full coverage that can be sheered out into nothing, and has a natural finish that makes dry skin and oily skin alike look its most healthy. It also has SPF50 which makes it great for everyday, and stays on all day without creasing, fading, or sinking into pores. In my opinion its perfect. The IT Cosmetics CC Cream retails for $38, and if thats more than you want to spend I would recommend the Rimmel Match Perfection Foundation. You can get it at any drugstore for about $6 and it makes your skin FLAWLESS. Again, its universally great for oily and dry skin types, and leaves a slightly luminous natural finish and stays perfect on the skin all day. As far as a foundation for photography (without an SPF), I think you can’t go wrong with MAC Face and Body, $27. It can be applied as light or as heavy as you want, has a huge shade range, and always has a perfect finish.

2. What mascara do you use/Do you use anything special on your eyelashes?

I naturally have very long, thick, and dark eyelashes, and I wear mascara most days as well. So naturally I get asked quite often if I wear lash extensions, get my lashes darkened, use a special lash serum, and if I do/use a number of different lash enhancing products/treatments. The short answer is no. I am just careful to protect the lashes I am naturally blessed with by being gentle when applying/removing makeup. And the mascara I use varies, but I typically use the Maybelline Full and Soft for everyday, and the Benefit They’re Real when I really want my lashes amped up. I also enjoy the Covergirl Lash Blast Volume and Clump Crusher.

3. Do you really need a primer?

I get asked this a lot by friends who have had bad experience with using primers in the past. Common complaints are: they didn’t work, they made the problem worse, and/or it seems like an unnecessary extra step. Personally, I strongly believe in the super powers of primers. First, many people believe face primers are solely for keeping your makeup on longer; when in actuality they do this and so much more! Many people are not aware that with face primers you can smooth out your skins texture, add radiance, add moisture, add a matte finish, all depending on what type your decide to use! There are so many to choose from, including some of my favorites which are Loreal Magic Lumi primer (adds a pearlescent luminous glow that can be applied under AND over foundation), Laura Mercier Oil Free primer (makes foundation stick to your skin like a glue), and NARS Pro Prime (smoothes out skin and offers SPF15).

As far as eye primers, I believe they are a MUST. No one likes their eyeshadow to crease, fade, fallout, or in any way become displaced. My Holy Grail eye primer that I will be using forever is the Urban Decay Primer Potion (I LOVE the shade Eden because it matches my skin tone enough to use as an eye area concealer too).

*My main tip for using a primer if you’ve previous had bad luck: SHAKE IT BEFORE USE! I find that primer properties can separate in the packaging, so if you find your primer isn’t working, or is becoming more watery/oily, thats probably why.*

4. Does _____ about my foundation look ok?

This question makes my smile every time I hear it because personally I like to make sure my foundation is blended to perfection before I leave the house, its just a personal pet peeve of mine. Though I understand that most people are busy and don’t have the time, experience , or even desire to examine every inch of their face in before going out the door.

To avoid ever having a “line” of foundation around your face/jaw area, make a habit of pulling your foundation slightly down your neck every time you apply it. You can do this with a brush, a sponge, your fingers, or anything else you can use to apply foundation.

To avoid looking “cakey” , remember less is more. I find that you always looks better when your actual skin can come through a bit regardless of imperfections. A blemish popping through a bit always looks better than a thick layer of foundation thats thrown on and not properly blended. Natural looking skin is the most universally flattering.

As far as getting the right shade, I would recommend going into a store like Sephora to be professionally matched, just like a bra. Make sure to ask to see it in different lights, to make sure it really does match, even if that mean looking at it outside. Also, stores like Sephora have many brands with many different shade ranges to choose from, so you’re sure to find your perfect match.

5. I know I should be using a brush to apply my foundation, but do I really have to?

This answer comes down to two things: personal preference, and the type of foundation you’re using. If you are using a traditional liquid or cream foundation, I find it is much easier, quicker, and arguably better to use a brush or sponge. Though using your fingers can be just as quick and natural looking when done properly. The warmth from your fingers actually helps the foundation to “fuse” with your skin; I find that patting/pressing motions work very well. That being said, there are many different types of tools to choose from as far as shape, density, etc.; my personal favorites being the Sigma Angled Kabuki Brush and the Beauty Blender Sponge. If you’re using a powder foundation, you can use a fluffy brush, and dense kabuki brush to buff it in, or a damp sponge to press it in for optimal coverage.

6. What can I use makeup-wise to improve my look, without looking too old/young, like I’ve applied too much ,or am trying too hard?

This is another hard question I get all the time. Again, its just personal preference. Though generally speaking, it looks most flattering when your makeup is minimal and enhances your features instead of recreating them altogether. This generally means a natural base (that can be any combination of foundation, concealer, primer, powder, etc), as long as it looks like it could actually be you; as I said above, less is always more. I then would suggest enhancing your lashes with a soft brown pencil eyeliner on the top lash line, and a simple coat of mascara. You can then use a soft pink lipstick as a sheer cream blush, and then apply the same color lightly to your lips.

7. How do you do a cat-eye liner?

Honestly, I still don’t really know how I do it sometimes! In short you can use a liquid or gel eyeliner to draw a thin line along your lashes, then once you get to the outer edge, trace an upward pointing line making natural progression of the corner of your lower outer eye, then all you have to do in connect the “flick” with the think line along your lashes, and voila! There are many youtube tutorials that can explain it much better than I just did, so I would suggest looking those up. Other than that, practice makes perfect.

Today I have a really exciting post for you! I will be giving away EVERYTHING in my favorites this month to one of you! I have been absolutely loving these products this month especially, and I think they are amazing for Spring!

THIS IS WHAT YOU’LL BE GETTING!

Too Faced Sun Bunny Bronzer : At first I was skeptical about such a shimmery bronzer, but this product is incredible! It swatches a bit crazy, but once applied to the skin it creates the most beautiful, natural bronzed glow I have ever experienced. After one use, this bronzer has become a Holy Grail.

Butter London Wink Colour Mascara in Indigo Punk : I have been loving this mascara this month because it is so unexpected. It is an orchid purple color that flashes indigo blue, but it is not super opaque, which makes it great for an understated pop of color. It applies well over a black mascara, or on its own for a more fairy-like/ethereal effect.

Covergirl Clump Crusher Mascara in Very Black : This is another Holy Grail product I have recently come across. I have used this mascara almost everyday since I first purchased it, and have gone through about three tubes. It has a plastic bristled wand similar to the Covergirl LashBlast Volume, but is much smaller and slightly curved. Not only does it not clump, as it says in its name; but it separates, lengthens, and volumizes in the same way as the Benefit They’re Real Mascara.

NYX Mega Shine Lip Gloss in Nude Peach : This is by far my all time favorite lip gloss for spring. It is a sheer to medium opacity peachy pink with slight coral shimmer. It has a doe foot applicator, and is super smooth and moisturizing to the lips. My favorite part of this product though is the scent, which is a sweet fruit punch!

Violent Lips The Red Glitteratti : I first came across this product at IMATS, and have been in love ever since. These are super fun to wear to parties, and are for sure a conversation starter (in a good way). These temporary lip appliqués fit all lips, last about 8 hours, and are generally easy to apply. The one the winner will be getting is The Red Glitteratti, which is a true red with red shimmer. I think these are perfect for prom, parties, or anytime you want to have a bit of fun with your makeup.

Dove Refresh+Care Volume Dry Shampoo : This product has been a life saver for me this month! As you guys know, I have a really oily scalp and super dry ends. This has saved me from having to wash my hair everyday since, unlike every other dry shampoo I’ve tried, it actually cleans your hair and makes it look freshly washed. It initially leaves a white cast, but is easily brushed away which is a huge bonus! It also adds volume and has a fresh, sweet citrus fragrance.

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER

All you have to do to enter is help promote my amazingly talented cousin’s new short film, Dogwood. Dogwood is an undergraduate thesis film for NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts by writer/director Andrew J. Hebert.

1. To be eligible, you must be of legal age in your country or ask a parent/guardian for permission to enter.

2.For ONE entry in my Giveaway, you must share the link below either on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Then comment below on this post once you have done so.

3.For THREE entries in my contest, you must donate any amount of money to benefit Dogwood. To donate, click the link below and then click “Donate Now”. Then comment below on this post once you have done so.

**Not only will you be entered in my Giveaway THREE times, but by making a donation you will also be entitled to things such as a “thanks” in the credits of the film, an exclusive digital download of the film, a role as an extra in the film, and much more – depending on the amount of your donation-***The contest ends April 12th 11:59pmPT*

*The winner of this Giveaway will be chosen randomly, and I WILL BE CHECKING to make sure the winner meets all of the criteria listed above**All products in the giveaway will be brand new, in-box*

This is the Princess Tag, which is basically a list of your High-End favorites. I know that everyone has a different definition of high-end vs. low-end, so as a disclaimer, the majority of these products will be in the $30 and above price range. It would be easy to just pick the most expensive products that I have in each category, but these high end products are actually ones that are amazing enough to be worn by a princess.